Highland community shocked and saddened over death of 'gentleman' shopkeeper George Rodgers
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The sudden death of a popular shopkeeper has shocked and saddened a Highland community.
A social media post announced the death of George Rodgers, the proprietor of Rodgers Newsagent, after the shop on Grant Street, Merkinch was closed on Monday.
Described by many as a stalwart of the community, and well known for "good reasons", Mr Rodgers' family describe his passing as "unexpected".
A post on the Rodgers Newsagents Facebook page, reads: "Some regulars might have noticed we’ve been closed today. This is due to the unexpected passing of shop proprietor George Rodgers. We as a family are still coming to terms with the tragic news.
"We hope to be serving you all again very soon and thank you for your understanding
"RIP George Burton Rodgers 1959- 2021."
Rodgers Newsagents was opened on Grant Street in 1932, passing through four generations of the family.
Many people took to social media to offer condolences to the family, describing Mr Rodgers as "one of a kind", with many residents describing enjoying daily conversations with the shop keeper.
Ryz Maclean said: "Shocked and saddened to learn this today.
"George brightened my day every morning with his quality banter! Thoughts are with you all at this difficult time."
Another, Hooper Donna said: "So sorry for your loss thinking of you all at this so sad and difficult time.
"We will all miss George dearly with his cheeriness and songs it was never a dull moment and such a major loss to the whole of Merkinch community...the guy's a legend!
"There's just no words for it."
